Antrocaryon klaineanum

Antrocaryon klaineanum · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Antrocaryon klaineanum is a botanical species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. Research indicates that the plant possesses notable antiplasmodial activities, making it a subject of interest for combating malaria. Various parts of the plant, specifically the root and stem, are utilized to treat conditions such as back pain, female sterility, hemorrhoids, and liver diseases. Scientific investigations have evaluated these medicinal properties using preparations including the methanol crude extract, dichloromethane fraction, and ethyl acetate fraction. These studies focus on both the crude extract and specific fractions to better understand the plant's pharmacological efficacy.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Spondias Klaineana · Spondias Soyauxii · 1 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Anacardiaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Root · Stem

Classification

Common Names

Antrocaryon klaineanum is a versatile tree known by a diverse array of names across different regions. It is frequently referred to by its common name, the white mahogany, highlighting its botanical characteristics. In certain areas, locals may call it the mongongo or the onzabili, reflecting its cultural significance. Additionally, the plant is sometimes identified as the bouton d'antilope. These various monikers demonstrate the widespread recognition and regional diversity surrounding this unique species.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Antrocaryon klaineanum is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different scientific names within various taxonomic databases. Due to historical reclassifications, it is widely recognized as a synonym for Antrocaryon soyauxii. Furthermore, researchers often encounter this plant under the name Spondias klaineana in older literature. The botanical complexity continues with its association to the name Spondias soyauxii as well. Understanding these synonymous relationships is essential for ensuring accurate identification and consistent communication in botanical studies.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Antrocaryon klaineanum is a remarkable botanical specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive group, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is a member of the order Sapindales, showcasing its evolutionary connection to diverse woody species. Furthermore, it falls under the family Anacardiaceae, a group known for its unique chemical properties. Ultimately, this species is defined by its distinct placement within the genus Antrocaryon.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Sapindales
Family Anacardiaceae
Genus Antrocaryon

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Antrocaryon klaineanum is a notable plant species with a widespread distribution throughout the African continent. Its presence is particularly strong across West Tropical Africa, including regions such as Nigeria. The species also extends into West-Central Tropical Africa, where it can be found in Cabinda and Cameroon. Furthermore, its range reaches deep into the heart of the continent within the Central African Republic. Finally, its natural habitat encompasses significant areas of the Congo, marking it as a vital part of the regional flora.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Antrocaryon klaineanum is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a sturdy tree. It is characterized by its impressive stature, capable of reaching a maximum height of 30 meters. This robust growth habit allows it to establish a significant presence within its natural environment.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Antrocaryon klaineanum is a plant species traditionally utilized in various medicinal practices to treat conditions such as malaria and liver diseases. Recent scientific investigations have focused on identifying the specific bioactive compounds within its root bark that contribute to these therapeutic effects. Research has successfully isolated several secondary metabolites, including the newly reported glucocerebroside antroklaicerebroside, from the plant. These studies specifically highlight that extracts and isolated compounds from the species demonstrate significant antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum strains. Ultimately, these findings validate the plant's traditional use by confirming its potent biological activity against malaria parasites.

Compounds

Conditions

Antrocaryon klaineanum demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its ability to treat Plasmodium falciparum, with certain extracts showing activity even against chloroquine-resistant strains. The plant also exhibits notable anti-inflammatory properties, which have been validated through protein denaturation and membrane stabilization methods. Traditional uses of the species include the treatment of back pain and the management of chlamydiae infections. Furthermore, it has been utilized in traditional medicine to address issues related to female sterility. These diverse biological activities highlight the plant's importance in treating various physiological conditions.

Preparations

Antrocaryon klaineanum is prepared as a crude extract to evaluate its inhibitory potential against Plasmodium falciparum. In further investigations, the plant is prepared as a methanol crude extract (AK-MeOH), which demonstrated significant antiparasitic activity. The plant is also prepared as an n-hexane fraction (AK-Hex) and a dichloromethane fraction (AK-DCM) for biological testing. Additionally, Antrocaryon klaineanum is prepared as an ethyl acetate fraction (AK-EtOAc) to study its effects against Leishmania donovani and various Plasmodium falciparum strains. These diverse preparations allow for the detailed characterization of the plant's bioactive secondary metabolites.

Parts used

Antrocaryon klaineanum is a plant species that offers significant medicinal potential through various of its anatomical parts. Research has demonstrated that the root of the plant contains bioactive secondary metabolites, such as the glucocerebroside antroklaicerebroside, which exhibit potent antileishmanial and antiplasmodial activities. Additionally, the stem provides a different source of therapeutic compounds, specifically ergostane steroids found within its bark. Studies on the stem bark have led to the characterization of several new sterols that show promise in inhibiting Plasmodium falciparum. Together, these findings highlight how both the root and stem of Antrocaryon klaineanum serve as vital components for pharmacological discovery.